Memorial Day

On Monday, May 29, Memorial Day is being celebrated across the United
States. Memorial Day became a tradition during the Civil War, as soldiers lost their
lives in the battle for abolition. In 1971, Memorial Day became a national holiday.
Originally, Memorial Day was celebrated by visiting the graves of fallen soldiers,
leaving flowers, and saying prayers. Because of these traditions, Memorial Day
was initially called Decoration Day, and it always fell on May 30. Memorial Day
was created to honor the soldiers who gave their lives for the Civil War, but as
more wars passed and more soldiers lost their lives, Memorial Day extended to all
wars.
Today, Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday of every May. Because
it is a federal holiday, many businesses are closed and workers have a 3-day
weekend. Memorial Day celebrations usually consist of parades and cookouts. New
York and Washington D.C. have extreme parades to honor veterans, especially
those who gave their lives. Many citizens wear a red poppy while visiting graves,
which is a tradition that started with World War 1.
Along with personal traditions among citizens, there are many events open
to all Americans. At the Arlington National Cemetary, a speech is given by the
President for Memorial Day. Ceremonies are held by military and national
organizations. In Virginia, the National Museum of the U.S. Army hosts events over
Memorial Day weekend. With general admission, visitors have the opportunity to
further celebrate Memorial Day. The museum holds a flag display, poppy-making
crafts, and hands-on exhibits. A biker rally is held in Washington D.C. in honor of
prisoners of war and missing soldiers. Throughout the country, states are holding
ceremonies and parades for fallen soldiers.
As you enjoy your day off, remember why this holiday exists. Soldiers have
been fighting for our country for centuries, and those who gave their lives during
wartime should be thought of during your cookouts and parades. As far as
gratitude goes, these heroes deserve the most of it.